Cape Town Hospice Volunteer Project

Home | Volunteer Programs in Africa | Medical and Healthcare Volunteer Programs in Africa | Cape Town Hospice Volunteer Project

Strengthen & Support South Africa's Public Healthcare System

South Africa’s healthcare system presents a unique tapestry, woven with both strengths and challenges. The public sector, serving the majority of the population, faces the immense task of catering to extensive needs with limited resources. While the private sector offers advanced care, its accessibility remains restricted for many. This intricate system navigates various obstacles, including a shortage of medical professionals and the ever-present strain on public facilities. As a hospice volunteer, you’ll directly support healthcare professionals, alleviating their workload and enabling them to focus on critical patient assessments and treatment plans. Whether it’s assisting with basic healthcare tasks or providing administrative support, your efforts will contribute significantly to the smooth functioning of these vital organizations.

Project Highlights

Work alongside nurses and senior healthcare professionals gaining valuable work experience.
Assist in providing restorative care for adults managing chronic illnesses, referred by healthcare professionals for a period of recuperation and rejuvenation.
Being part of a dedicated team of healthcare professionals extends a helping hand to those in need, offering medical support and attention directly within their homes in outlying communities.
Enhance well-being by supporting every patient to ensure they get physical, mental and emotional respite during their stay.
After a day filled with inspiring hospice volunteering work, unwind and explore the beauty and vibrancy of Cape Town.

Quick Facts

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town International Airport

Specific Start Dates

3 weeks - 12 weeks

Impact: Healthcare

$2,450 – $5,150

Project Destination

Nestled between the majestic Table Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, volunteering in Cape Town offers an unparalleled blend of experiences, from thrilling outdoor activities to enriching cultural immersion. Delve into the rich history and culture of South Africa, visiting the iconic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent years as a political prisoner, or embarking on a free walking tour through the city to learn about the complexities of Apartheid. Let the echoes of the past intertwine with the vibrant present, creating an unforgettable tapestry of experiences.

ACCOMMODATION

You will live in a spacious guest house in the center of town, with views towards Lion’s Head and just a few minutes from trendy Kloof street. There are several bedrooms that can sleep between 4-8 people, in single beds or bunk beds, and there are shared bathroom facilities with hot water showers. Bed linen is provided to all Cape Town volunteers, and a cleaning service will attend to your room daily.

MEALS

Volunteers enjoy delicious meals in our communal dining room. Start your day with continental-style breakfasts, returning for a cooked lunch and dinner with your fellow volunteers. Some project days, you’ll be provided with a packed lunch. We can cater for dietary requirements provided enough notice is given to our team.

COMMUNICATION

South Africa has a few different cellular network providers, for which SIM cards can be purchased from most shops or at the airport. Various package options allow for phone calls and/or data usage. At the guesthouse, there is free WiFi to enable you to make contact with home.

CLIMATE

Cape Town has a Mediterranean-style climate: wet and cool winters, dry and warm summers. The annual average temperature in Cape Town is a delightful 17°C (62°F). During the months of March, April, May, October, November, and December you are most likely to experience good weather with average temperatures that fall between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F).

The months of June, July, and August have a high chance of rain. Cape Town has dry periods in January, February, November, and December. The warmest month is January with temperatures as high as 35°C (95°F). The coldest month is August with an average maximum temperature of 17°C (62°F).

Participant Requirements

AGE

The minimum age for our hospice volunteering project in Cape Town is 21.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

To travel to Africa, many people are required to obtain a visa either upon entry to the relevant country or beforehand. Please note different countries require different passport validity periods. But don’t panic, our Journey Team will help direct you and answer your questions during our Pre-departure process.

Project Impact Areas

RESPITE CARE

South Africa, a nation brimming with resilience and cultural vibrancy, faces a unique challenge in its healthcare landscape. The overburdened public healthcare system often struggles to meet the needs of individuals with chronic illnesses, leaving many without access to proper care and support. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for medical volunteers to support respite care in Cape Town, a vital service that provides temporary relief and alleviates the burden on families and caregivers.

HEALTH EDUCATION

Share your passion and expertise in health education, empowering individuals and communities through our medical volunteer projects in Cape Town. Partner with local schools, training centers, and support groups. Deliver impactful talks on crucial topics like HIV prevention, healthy eating, cervical cancer awareness, and women’s well-being. Together, let’s build a healthier future, one informed community at a time.

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Each day, you’ll walk and work alongside a dedicated healthcare team – a senior nurse and 3 carers – in the heart of underserved communities. You’ll embark on a meaningful journey volunteering for hospice, providing essential medical support and compassionate care directly to those who are housebound. Each day, you’ll ensure patients have the resources they need to manage their health conditions effectively.

Impact title

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.

Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.

On-the-ground Project Support

FLIGHTS & ARRIVAL

A friendly face from our Base Team will be ready to meet you at the airport and drive you to our Volunteer Accommodation. Just look out for the African Impact sign!

SAFETY

On arrival you’ll have a comprehensive induction to prepare you for project work, the local culture, people and wildlife; and of course, how to stay safe!

STAFF

24/7 support: Our base teams are on hand every day to make sure you have the most amazing and memorable time in Africa.

Program Experience

project video

Play Video

Recent Volunteer Reviews

" Our experience was extremely positive. We loved our experience and recommend it to the upcoming cohort. The staff were very nice and accommodating as well. Go - you won't regret it."

“Volunteering with African Impact frequently pushes you outside of your comfort zone and that is the best part about it. People from all different walks of life congregate here and work for a common goal, which is really something special. The work I’ve done here as a medical volunteer has been meaningful and that’s why I’ve come here twice, there really is no better way to make an immediate impact on a great community than volunteering here. Lastly, the staff of African Impact is incredible from top to bottom and they really create a fantastic family atmosphere.”

“Great, would recommend again. there are great staff, very friendly. they really immerse you into the culture and provide a great Zambian experience. There are many activities to choose from and you really feel like you are making a difference in the lives of those here.”

Gallery

Compassionate volunteers offer support in Cape Town's hospice initiative.

Two community-driven volunteers at Cape Town's Hospice Project.

Aiding those in need by volunteering in the Hospice Volunteering Project, Cape Town.

Caring hearts unite and discuss how volunteers create impact withCape Town's Hospice Project.

Caring individuals offer support in Cape Town's hospice program.

Dedicated volunteers extend compassion through Cape Town's hospice program.

Supportive volunteers lend a helping hand in Cape Town's hospice initiative.

Empathetic volunteers contribute to the care at Cape Town's hospice initiative.

Kind-hearted volunteers provide assistance in Cape Town's hospice project.

RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES IN Cape Town

CONQUER TABLE MOUNTAIN

Challenge yourself to conquer the iconic Table Mountain, either by ascending its majestic slopes on foot or taking the exhilarating cable car ride to the summit. From there, take the plunge and abseil your way down, feeling the adrenaline rush as you descend the mountain face.

SAFARI TIME!

If you fancy a little time out of the city, then you don’t have to go far to discover what the surrounding landscape has to offer. You can experience an African Safari at Aquila Safari – a “Big 5” private game reserve with animals such as the springbok, lion, cape porcupine, olive baboon, leopard, and African elephant.

TIME TO EXPLORE

Cape Town’s captivating landscapes and vibrant culture offer an endless array of photo opportunities that will leave you with memories to cherish forever. Embark on a boat trip to the iconic Seal Island, where you’ll be surrounded by playful seals and capture stunning photographs amidst the mesmerizing natural beauty of the ocean.

Project Dates & Rates

When would you like to volunteer?

Give us an idea of your travel plans, you can also say ‘I’m not sure yet.’ We’ll take it from there.

How long would you like to volunteer?

This is the place to select your preferred duration(s). The African Impact team recommend at least 4 weeks for a truly memorable experience!

3 weeks $2450

4 weeks $2750

5 weeks $3050

6 weeks $3350

7 weeks $3650

8 weeks $3950

9 weeks $4250

10 weeks $4550

11 weeks $4850

12 weeks $5150

Personal Information

"*" indicates required fields

Name*

First Last

Email*

Phone*

Why do you want to apply for this program?

SMS & WhatsApp Opt-In

By opting in to SMS and WhatsApp communication, you give consent to receive text messages from African Impact that will assist in booking your placement. You can opt-out at any time by texting STOP.

I opt-in to receiving SMS and/or WhatsApp communications

Name

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Project Fee Includes:

Accommodation
All meals
Airport transfers
All project related transport during your stay
All activities and entrance fees as per the workshop itinerary

Project Fee Excludes:

Flights
Travel insurance
Visa-related costs
Weekend trips or tours
Snacks, soft drinks, gifts, and souvenirs
Mandatory contribution of US$25 that is donated to the African Impact Sustainability Fund

Program Name - FAQs

Is this a good fit for me, especially if I'm interested in healthcare?

Absolutely! Volunteering at a hospice is an ideal opportunity for individuals, particularly those considering careers in medicine or nursing, to gain valuable experience in a unique healthcare setting. You’ll witness firsthand the importance of compassionate care and gain insights into hospice support, while also contributing meaningfully to the well-being of patients and their families.

How can I make the most of my volunteer experience in Cape Town?

Be open to new experiences, embrace the local culture, and actively participate in program activities. Take initiative, ask questions, and connect with fellow volunteers and community members. Remember, volunteering is a two-way street – you have the opportunity to learn and grow just as much as you contribute to the community.

Are there any language barriers?

While English is widely spoken in Cape Town, especially in tourist areas, you may encounter individuals who speak primarily Afrikaans or local indigenous languages. Basic language skills can be helpful, but most importantly, a willingness to communicate and connect with people from different backgrounds is essential.

More about African Impact

How it works

Find a project

Choose & apply for one of our exciting projects!

connect with us

Connect and plan your trip with our Destination Specialists

secure a place

Pay your deposit to secure your booking

start preparing

Start finalising your trip with our Journey Team

Accreditations & Awards

Related Projects

NGO Photography Program – Nkhata Bay, Malawi

Nkhata Bay, Malawi

Starts: 19th May 2024

Impact: NGO & Charity

If you’re a keen photographer with a passion for making an impact, we’d love to have you join this photography program in Malawi, Africa.

$2,950 – $4,150

Big Cat & Elephant Research and Conservation in Kenya

Maasai Mara, Kenya

Specific Start Dates

Impact: Wildlife Conservation

Join the African Impact team on our newest volunteer program with big cat monitoring and elephant research and conservation, join today!

$3,725 – $9,225

NGO Photography Program – Zambia

Various

Specific Start Dates

Impact: NGO & Charity

If you’re a keen photographer with a passion for making an impact, we’d love to have you join this photography volunteer program in Africa

$2,750 – $3,750